Just okay, but should have been better
It had the potential to be something special, especially with Sofia Carson in the lead. I’ve really enjoyed her performances in the last couple of films she’s done, and to her credit, she delivers here as well. She’s charming, likable, and gives the role her all. Unfortunately, the rest of the movie doesn’t quite keep pace.
The story feels slow at times, and the emotional beats don’t always land the way they should. For a romance set against the beauty and history of Oxford, you’d expect sparks to fly—but the chemistry between the leads isn’t as strong as it needs to be. Without that connection, some of the more pivotal moments don’t hit as hard, and the audience is left feeling more like an observer than someone swept into the romance.
On paper, the premise has plenty of promise: ambition, personal growth, and love colliding in one of the most prestigious settings in the world. But the execution is a little too tidy in some places and underdeveloped in others. Certain turning points in the story happen with surprising ease, and the film skips past moments that could have added more depth or realism to the characters’ journeys.
Visually, it’s pleasant—the scenery of Oxford is always beautiful—but the storytelling needed a bit more texture. The pacing also wavers; some scenes drag, while others move so quickly that the weight of the moment is lost.
In the end, My Oxford Year is a decent watch if you’re a fan of Sofia Carson or simply in the mood for a light romantic drama in a picturesque setting. But if you’re looking for something that will truly sweep you off your feet or linger with you after the credits roll, this one might not make the cut. It’s not a bad film, just not as memorable as it could have been.
Leave a Reply